Today I want to take a look at another very popular day pack that is getting a lot of positive reviews and user feedback. That pack is the Gregory Z30 Backpack.

It look’s ideal for hiking in particular as I think it has most of the functional specifications and capabilities I would look for in a good hiking day pack.

So, with that in mind let's delve further into some of the features on this pack.

Summary  

Average User Rating: 5 stars out of 5 (5+ Reviews)

Available Colors: 3 Storm Black, Marine Blue, Spark Red

Where to Buy: amazon.com

Look and Design

As you can see from the photo, the Z30 has a sleek and aerodynamic look to it. There's a smooth feel to the outer design which I have seen in a lot of packs in recent times. It's a good look overall and with multiple colors available, you shouldn't be stuck for choice.

The packs features a crossflo support / suspension which curves to enable a good on fit your back. Again, you can see that in the picture above.

As with any pack, you need good ventilation to your back to prevent hot spots and general discomfort. The crossflo design is complimented on this front with the addition of EVA shoulder straps which are ventilated again allowing air to circulate easily on your shoulders and back.

The pack material itself is made from; pack body 210D nylon, 100D nylon, pack base 210D nylon and the pack lining 200D polyester.

Capacity, Storage and Weight

With regards to capacity, the Z30 comes in two sizes, the medium comes ins at 1830 cubic inches (30 Liters) and the large at 1952 cubic inches (32 Liters).

Personally, to accommodate all you should take with you on a day hike, I have recently come to the conclusion that a day pack should be between 30-35 Liters so the Z30 falls into that range nicely here.

Storage wise, internally there is one main compartment with a stretch pocket inside and a furthers internal pockets. These are needed to put away smaller items for safe keeping e.g. your mobile phone in a dry bag, sun screen, etc.

Outside the pack, the pack features 1 outer expandable pocket, handy for stuffing something into as you hike e.g. a hat, and 2 outer mesh water bottle pockets.

Overall, I really like the storage options on the Z30. It has pretty much everything I think you would need for a day hike.

With regards to weight, the claimed weights for the medium Z30 is 2 Ib 6 oz (1.2 Kg's approx), and the large Z30 comes in at 2 Ib 9 oz (1.3 Kg's approx).

Other Features

The Z3o comes with the all important, in my opinion, hydration sleeve and port. I am a big fan of using a hydration reservoir for your water needs when out on the trail.

The Z30 also comes with an integrated rain cover. Again, while you can get by fine with a separate rain cover for any pack, I have come to look for this as standard in a pack as time has moved on. just really handy to have it already built into your pack.

Finally, the Z30 has the standard hooks and loops I'd expect on a functional day pack e.g. Ice ax and trekking pole attachment loops, etc.

Price

The Z30 does seem to be on the upper end of price for a day pack but not extortionate by any means. You get a lot of good, functional and, in my opinion, necessary, features in the pack as well as a lifetime warranty.

Gregory are also a very well known and loved brand by hikers so I think it's fair enough to say you're getting quality so a fair price overall.

Pros:

• Good capacity for a day-hike pack
• Perfect for hiking
• Lots of outdoor specific features e.g. a hip belt pockets, stretch pockets, etc.
• Hydration bladder holder is perfect for carrying water for a day hike
• Rain cover included

Cons:

• Bit more expensive than other similar day packs
• Bit heavier than a smaller daypack

Features:

• Ventilated EVA shoulder straps
• Crossflo support / suspension
• Hydration reservoir compatible
• Integrated rain cover
• Multiple pockets: 2 zippered panel, 1 zippered bucket, 2 stretch water bottle, 2 waist belt, i internal security
• Ice tool and trekking pole attachment loops/bungee ties
• Weight capacity: 35 Ibs
• Material: body: 210D nylon, 100D nylon, base: 210D nylon, lining: 200D polyester
• Claimed weight: M = 2 Ib 6 oz, L = 2 Ib 9 oz
• Lifetime warranty

Conclusion

Overall, I think the Gregory Z30 is a really great day pack, so much so that I am thinking of moving it into the no. 1 spot on the day pack comparison table. I'll reflect on that a bit more first though 🙂

It has all the capabilities, features and functions I would look for in a good day pack and I like the size to enable you to carry all you need for the day out on the trail. It's on the upper side of the price range but I do think it's worth it, you get a decent bang for your buck!

If you're still unsure what day pack to go with check out more day pack options here. Also, If you're unsure about what you should be looking for when buying a day pack for the trail, check out this buying advice which covers all the main points you should think about when making an informed decision.

Have you used the Gregory z30 Backpack? I’d love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below.

The last week or so I've been keenly looking at day packs for the trail, mainly as I've been in the market for one myself 🙂 I've found some great options and done a few posts on some of them over the last weeks.

Today, I am continuing in that vein by looking at another great little hiking day pack, the Osprey Talon 22 Backpack.

Again, it’s purpose built for outdoor activity so it has a lot of great features that a good day pack for the trail should have.

Summary  

Average User Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Available Colors: Shamrock Green, Onyx Black, Avatar Blue, Flame Orange

Where to Buy: amazon.com

Review

When I started looking into the Talon 22, I was very impressed at how much great user feedback it was generating. Overall, from what I can ascertain, in the Talon 22 we have a day pack that is built for the long term and so good value is a given.

The pack is lightweight coming in at around 1 lb 8 oz (0.8 kg's approx) and can comfortable store up to 20 pounds (9 kg's) of gear.

The Talon offers panel access with a zippered compartment as the main storage area in the pack as well as multiple convenient pockets e.g. on the hip belt, top of the pack, etc.

It features an outer hydration sleeve for a hydration pack, note the hydration pack does not come as part of the pack.

The Talon has a sleek and aerodynamic look about it, probably purpose built to help ensure maximum ease through the air when moving. There are plenty of adjustable straps throughout so getting a good fit should be no problem.

The aesthetically pleasing look of this pack ensures that it will fit in just about anywhere and for just about any activity. There is a ventilating ridged foam back panel that will help keep your back fresh and dry.

The pack has lot's of attachment loops so whether you want to fit an ice axe, walking poles or a flash lamp, the Talon has the ability to do so.

This is a purpose built pack for the outdoors. From all the user feedback I read on the Talon, you can't go far wrong by adding this to your day pack kit for the trail. I'm sure it does fine for a weekend away too.

On the downside, one thing it doesn't have is a built in rain cover which, while not the end of the world as you can get one separately, would be nice to have.

One final thing I feel I should mention is that I came across several folks mentioning how durable the Talon 22 pack is. With that in mind it is hardly surprising that this pack comes with a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer. Can't beat that!

Pros:

• Decent capacity for a day-hike pack
• Multi-purpose outdoor use e.g. day hiking, running, cycling, city day break, etc.
• Lots of outdoor specific features e.g. a hip belt pocket, emergency whistle attachment, etc.
• Hydration bladder holder is perfect for a day hike

Cons:

• 22 liters may be a bit too small
• Not a big thing, but if you're looking for one there is no built in rain cover

Features:

• Mesh-covered foam shoulder harness with height adjustment and load-adjustment
• Mesh-covered foam hip-belt with Ergo Pull adjustment
• Adjustable sternum strap with whistle buckle
• AirScape ridged foam back panel with ventilation channels
• Comfortably holds 10-20 pounds of gear
• Panel access with zippered main compartment
• Rugged nylon fabric and lightweight YKK buckles
• External hydration sleeve (reservoir not included)
• Stretch side pockets and shoulder harness pocket
• Two zippered hip-belt pockets
• Ice tool and trekking pole attachment loops/bungee ties
• LidLock helmet attachment
• Reflective graphics

Specs:

• Pack material: 70D x 100D mini-shadow nylon, 210D nylon dobby
• Frame type: Internal
• Frame material: Molded foam
• Pack loading: Top
• Recommended use: Day Hiking, Mountain Biking, Adventure Racing
• Pack volume: Under 25 L
• Pack style: Daypacks
• Pack Gender: Men,Women
• Dimensions: (S/M and M/L) 21 x 10 x 9 in
• Pack Capacity: (S/M) 1220 cu in, (M/L) 1343 cu in
• Weight: (S/M) 1 lb 7 oz, (M/L) 1 lb 8 oz

Conclusion

So, in summary the Osprey Talon 22 backpack scores very highly across the board in nearly all departments for a perfect day pack. The one thing I note is no built in rain cover but that isn't the end of the world by any means as they're easy to buy separately.

It's great to see great design when it comes to a hiking day pack and even better when a manufacture is willing to stand over it with a lifetime guarantee. With that in mind as well as all the great user feedback across the web on this pack, I think you can be pretty sure you're getting something of real quality.

If you're still unsure what day pack to go with check out more day pack options here. Also, If you're unsure about what you should be looking for when buying a day pack for the trail, check out this buying advice which covers all the main points you should think about when making an informed decision.

Have you used the Osprey Talon 22 Backpack? I’d love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below.

Today, I wanted to take a look at a great little pack that is perfect for a day hike out into the hills. That pack is the Gregory Miwok 24 Backpack.

It's purpose built for outdoor activity so it has a lot of nice features to compliment your adventures on the trail.

Summary  

Average Customer Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (10+ reviews)

Available Colors: Cobalt Blue, Mercury Gray, Spark Orange

Where to Buy: amazon.com

Review

Offering lightweight comfort for long day hikes, the Gregory Miwok 24 backpack has two compartments, back panel access to your hydration reservoir, and Aero-Mesh padding to help you stay dry when you get sweaty.

The aesthetically pleasing look of this pack ensures that it will fit in just about anywhere and for just about any activity. It's design is purpose built to move in line with your body so great for the active user.

We're of course interested in hiking and it works great as a day pack. The moisture wicking Aero-mesh back panel helps your back stay ventilated on even the toughest ascents.

As with the enterprise pack, this one is lightweight and adjustable so you can find the perfect fit for your shape and size. An extensive range of functional pockets throughout, you shouldn't go short of storage space.

This is a nice all-round pack. It's both functional for the trail but easily fits the multiple purpose label and will work great on a bike ride or just trekking across town. It's efficient size also means it's ideal for an easy stowaway while travelling on any train, plane or auto mobile.

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable adjustable fit with good capacity
• Perfect for multi-purpose outdoor use e.g. day hiking, running, cycling, city day break, etc.
• Lots of functional pockets including a fleece lined media pocket which is perfect to protect your phone while out on the trail
• 3 liter hydration bladder holder is perfect for a day hike

Cons:

• May not be great for a very tall person

Features:

• BioSync Active Trail Suspension uses flexible tendons on the shoulders and waistbelt so the pack moves with the body
• Internal compression system lets you move the pack closer to your back when the volume of the hydration reservoir decreases
• Zip access from the back panel for loading and filling a three-liter hydration reservoir (bladder not included)
• Moisture-wicking Aero-mesh back panel, shoulder straps and waistbelt
• Internal mesh organizer pockets
• Fleece-lined media pocket
• Expandable front stretch mesh pocket with three-point compression system
• Side mesh pockets
• Two zip waistbelt pockets
• Adjustable sternum strap
• Reflective trim

Specs:

• Pack material: Nylon
• Frame type: Internal
• Frame material: Molded foam
• Pack loading: Top
• Recommended use: Cycling,Daypack,Running, Trail running
• Pack volume: Under 25 L
• Pack style: Daypacks
• Pack Gender: Men,Women
• Fits torsos: 14 – 22″
• Dimensions: 18x13x7″
• Pack Capacity: 1282 cu.in.
• Weight: 1 lb. 10 oz.

Conclusion

OK, so that's it for today. I hope you enjoyed this quick look at the Gregory Miwok 24 Backpack. Overall, I think it's a nice little pack for day-hiking. While I would normally look for a few extra features and maybe a bit more overall space, it still looks like a great little pack that's purpose built for the outdoors.

It has a lot of great user feedback across the net so it is definitely worth a look if you're in the market for a daypack for the trail.

If you're still unsure what day pack to go with check out more day pack options here. Also, If you're unsure about what you should be looking for when buying a day pack for the trail, check out this buying advice which covers all the main points you should think about when making an informed decision.

Have you used the Gregory Miwok 24 Backpack? I'd love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below.

This backpack has an interesting design which immediately caught my eye when I first saw it. The material sticking out of the front looked interesting and somewhat different from a standard day pack design.

On further investigation, I found that this feature on the front is a handy stuff pocket which would be ideal for stuffing a piece of kit into while on the move.

As that had piqued my interest, I thought a closer look at the various other features available in the Mountain Hardwear Fluid 26 backpack was required.

Summary

Average Customer Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (20+ reviews)

Available Colors: Black, Crimson, Flame

Where to Buy: sierratradingpost.com

Review

The Fluid 26 backpack is a perfectly sized pack for a day out on the trail. At 26 / 28 Liters, it has adequate space to pack away all the necessary bits and pieces for a day hike.

Storage wise there are 3 compartments in the main bag area and externally the pack is equipped with a stretch side water bottle and stuff pockets which are very handy for stuffing a layer into while on the move. The pack also two zip pockets on it's padded mesh waist belt for easy access so there's plenty of storage room on the Fluid 26. Carry loops for an ice ax and trekking poles are also featured on the pack.

Stability wise, the Fluid 26 is supported using CoolWave suspension which utilizes air channels and a breathable mesh back panel with lumbar padding to keep the pack stable on your back while allowing room for ventilation. The backpanel also has a HardWave framesheet which keeps the back panel of your pack flat, the framesheet is strong but flexible. A nice additional feature to the stability features are side compression straps which enable you to adjust load stability on the move.

The pack comes with a built in hydration pocket with dual ports. The bladder is not included but if you're looking for one check out the hydration pack buying guide.

As already mentioned, the waist belt is built using padded mesh for extra load comfort. The shoulder straps are also padded mesh and the Fluid 26 has an adjustable sternum strap to help you adjust it to a comfortable fit.

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable with lot's of adjustable fit options
• Ideal for multi-purpose use e.g. day hiking, short travel, biking, etc.
• Plenty of available storage including handy front stuff pockets
• Hydration sleeve with Dual Ports

Cons:

• Some comments that the backpanel framesheet is not as strong as it could be, with a name like fluid though, this could be by design
• No rain cover included

Specs (at a glance):

• Pack material: 100 denier HT ripstop dobby nylon, 210 denier Hexnut ripstop nylon
• Frame type: Internal
• Hydration compatible: Yes
• Pack loading: Top
• Ice tool/trekking pole loops: Yes
• Recommended use: Backpacking Day or Overnight,Climbing,Daypack
• Volume liters: 26
• S/M:
• Dimensions: 20x10x7-1/2″
• Pack capacity: 1585 cu.in. (26 Liters)
• Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
• Fits torsos: 16-19″
• M/L:
• Dimensions: 22x10x7-1/2″
• Pack capacity: 1700 cu.in. (27 Liters)
• Weight: 2 lb.
• Fits torsos: 18-1/2-22″
• Pack volume: 25-34 L

 

 

Conclusion

Overall the Mountain Hardwear Fluid 26 pack ticks a lot of boxes for a good functional day pack. It has plenty of storage options, which I tend to look for in a day pack, and has decent ventilation for your back which I also think is a very important functional feature on a good day pack.

The front stuff pocket is a nice feature and I think that overall it has a pretty unique look. Finally, all of this comes in at a very reasonable price so if you're looking for a day pack, you could definitely do a lot worse than this one.

You can check out more day packs here where I give some of my preferred recommendations.

Do you have the Mountain Hardwear Fluid 26 Backpack? How have you found it out? Let me know in the comments below.